Archimedes is an early leaf lettuce variety belonging to the oily Salanova type. The plant forms a compact, large, horizontal, open rosette with small, elongated-elliptical, dark green, glossy, and slightly wavy-edged leaves. The leaves have an oily texture, crisp and juicy, with a pleasant mild sweet taste. The plant height reaches about 17 cm, rosette diameter — 19 cm, and the mature plant weight can reach 280 grams. Average yield is 2.2 kg per square meter.
The Archimedes variety is versatile in use: it can be grown for fresh consumption as well as for processing. It is adapted for cultivation in open ground from early April to September, and in protected environments year-round. The lettuce tolerates temperature fluctuations and has a prolonged period before bolting, allowing for extended harvest. Recommended planting density is 13-16 plants per square meter, and seed sowing depth — 1-1.5 cm. For high yields, regular loosening, weeding, thinning, and maintaining optimal soil moisture without waterlogging are required.
Archimedes exhibits high resistance to diseases such as downy mildew (Bremia lactucae, races 1-16, 19, 21, 23), internal necrosis, and lettuce aphid. The variety shows high adaptability, enabling cultivation on various soil types and during different seasons — spring and autumn. Due to its commercial qualities, the lettuce retains freshness and attractive appearance during prolonged storage and transport. It is suitable for both manual and mechanized harvesting, making it convenient for various cultivation methods and marketing approaches.
